On Monday Dungloe woman Marie Therese Gallagher entered Donegal County Council Chamber and took her seat as a Sinn Fein Councillor for the Glenties electoral area.

Members of the Chamber welcomed the 26-year-old with a standing ovation as her proud parents, Paddy and Cha (Charlotte) looked on. Marie Therese's family including her two sisters; Aileen Boyle and Nuala Bonner, her aunts Mary Joe Murrin and Nancy O'Donnell and uncle Bimbo Gallagher were all present in the public gallery.

Marie Therese Gallagher thanked all present for the warm welcome.

"I'm very proud to be here and am looking forward to working with you all."

The mother of one was co-opted onto the County Council following a selection convention in her home town on 15 September to fill the seat vacated by Senator Pearse Doherty.

Welcoming Councillor Gallagher to the Council, party colleague, Tony McDaid said he was proud that two young women had put their names forward for the seat at the Party convention. He said it was encouraging that young people are entering politics and the Council Chamber at such a busy time. Councillor Thomas Pringle seconded the co-option.

Fianna Fáil Party Whip, Cllr Francis Connaghan said it was a proud day for Marie Therese Gallagher, her family, friends and supporters.

"We all fight political battles in here but you'll find the real enemy is sitting at the top table and its not the Chairman John Boyle," he quipped.

Fine Gael Party Whip, Cllr Terence Slowey welcomed Councillor Boyle on behalf of the Fine Gael party. Cllr Slowey said he was looking forward to working with Ms Boyle in the Glenties Electoral Area and offered any advice or guidance she may need when the chamber "becomes a political cauldron".

Independent Councillor Ian McGarvey said he would like to see the chamber united rather than divided by political squabbling.

Cllr Enda Bonner said that Councillor Gallagher, "came from two very industrious families." He noted that her great grand-father was Paddy the Cope and her mother Cha was from the Sweeney family hotel group.

"You come from a good pedigree and I sincerely hope you have good times and wish you well although politically it may not always be possible," he said.

Cllr David Alcorn also welcomed the new candidate to the electoral area.

County Manager Michael McLoone extended an offer of support and aid by his staff to the new member and said: "All council staff treat members with great respect and trust. I hope you enjoy your time here. Congratulations to you and your family."

Maor of Donegal County Council, Cllr John Boyle said her presence did "something to help the gender balance".